The ordinance calls for setbacks of 100 feet from the nearest lot line, a stack height of at least 15 feet, and that outdoor furnaces be operated only from Oct. 1 until April 30.

Existing furnaces can remain even if the setback rule isn’t met if the owner registers it with the township. New furnaces must meet certain federal emission standards.

Township Trustee Ron Feniger, who is a also a member of the township Planning Commission that drafted the ordinance, said that regulating outdoor furnaces is a proactive move.

Outdoor furnaces have been increasing in popularity lately, as people seek to save money energy costs — and with them have come complaints about the smoke.

Alamo resident Newt Covault said he thinks the ordinance is unnecessary, and that the township should have done more research on the issue.

“They all smoke,” he said, acknowledging that outdoor furnaces shouldn’t be used in more populated areas. “But for the country, they’re no problem.”

Alamo Township is more rural than other areas that have chosen to regulate outdoor furnaces.

“We don’t have a problem [with outdoor furnaces],” Feniger said. “Just make sure it’s a good one and let us know.”

Covault acknowledged that the ordinance won’t affect many people who currently use outdoor furnaces. But he said he believes that enforcement will prove difficult.

The restriction of operation dates has proved troublesome for some residents.

Alamo resident Jeff Spitzner petitioned the township board at its Oct. 11 meeting to consider changing the dates of operation, as he uses his outdoor furnace to heat his indoor pool, and other residents use outdoor furnaces to heat water.

Spitzner said he also believes that the rule needs to be clarified as to whether it is a pollution ordinance or a nuisance ordinance.

The specifics of the ordinance can be changed, Feniger said. “We need to get this done before there are too many [outdoor furnaces],” Feniger said. “If we wait for complaints it’ll be too late.”